Technology can be a wonderful tool that continually opens new doors. With it, we have increased productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness, more so than we ever thought possible. It has truly revolutionized the way we work and the way we play. At the same time, technology has a dark side, creating vulnerabilities where previously there were none. Competitors can engage in corporate espionage or otherwise disrupt business operations. Opportunities are created for hackers to access important data and exploit you or your customers. To this end, particularly as the holiday season approaches, there are several steps that businesses should take to ensure continued IT reliability and security.

For stronger security, utilize multifactor authentication

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a security system designed to reduce the chance of unauthorized access. It requires multiple factors which operate independently, to gain access to restricted data or areas. An example of this would be requiring an employee to swipe a badge as well as enter a code to enter a restricted area. Online, an example of MFA is to require a password as well as providing a pin sent to your phone via Microsoft Azure’s MFA service.

MFA is a great way to protect against situations in which an employee may accidentally divulge a password or provide other means of access. By requiring multiple factors for access, businesses utilizing MFA can maximize their security.

Enhance your strategic planning with flat-rate IT services

IT security costs money; there’s no way around it. However, if a business uses flat-rate IT (as opposed to paying IT professionals an hourly rate to work on a given issue), costs can be normalized. Adopting flat-rate services also curtails the temptation to skimp on IT security and infrastructure improvements simply to save money.

When it comes to the cost of IT security, predictability is a good thing. As such, adding a flat-rate IT service is a step that makes sense and – in the long run – saves money.

Work with an expert to assess your network

If you don’t know about potential security weaknesses in your IT network, you cannot address them. Given the complex technology utilized by today’s IT networks, it takes a trained eye to spot weaknesses and other issues.

The holiday season is almost here. With it comes an increase in cybersecurity issues. By following the above steps, you can position your business to survive and thrive this holiday season.

The ITeam is dedicated to helping Calgary- and Alberta-based businesses avoid cybersecurity challenges. We do this by providing essential IT support and customized services designed to meet the needs of your business. The ITeam will work with you to develop a cost-effective and comprehensive IT strategy that will help you thrive. Contact us for a free consultation or schedule a network assessment today.